Quercetin

Quercetin is a pigment found in many plants, fruits, and vegetables. It may have some health benefits and help prevent a range of conditions. People can get quercetin through a balanced diet or by taking a supplement. Quercetin is a flavonol, which is a sub-category of flavonoids. Flavonoids are a particular chemical in plants, called phytonutrients, and have a wide range of health benefits. Humans cannot make quercetin in their body, but many fruits, vegetables, and drinks contain it. Foods and drinks that contain quercetin include: grapes, berries, cherries, apples, citrus fruits, onions, buckwheat, broccoli, kale, tomatoes, red wine and black tea.

Quercetin is also present in herbal remedies, such as ginkgo biloba and St John's wort. People can also take quercetin as a supplement. Quercetin is a more powerful antioxidant than vitamin C, vitamin E, or beta carotene. Quercetin might help reduce inflammation. One study on animals found that quercetin prevented both acute and chronic inflammation, in addition to showing anti-arthritis properties. Quercetin may contain anticancer properties that might help prevent the spread of cancerous cells and tumor growth. Quercetin may help to prevent neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson’s disease.

Research suggests that quercetin might be an effective antihistamine, as it restricts histamine from being released from cells. These anti-allergy properties indicate that quercetin might help treat bronchitis and asthma. Quercetin has antibacterial properties, which are effective against almost all types of bacteria. Quercetin may improve blood vessel cell health and blood flow through arteries in people with heart disease. According to a 2016 study by the American Heart and Stroke Association, taking quercetin supplements could be an effective way to reduce blood pressure.